Photos: Coast Guard ‘wet drills’ at Torrance Beach

Coast Guard rescue swimmer Tommy Hyde prepares to jump from a helicopter hovering over the surf at Torrance Beach.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Coast Guard rescue swimmer Tommy Hyde drops to the water after jumping from a helicopter over the surf at Torrance Beach, part of his “wet drills” training.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Coast Guard rescue swimmer Tommy Hyde, left, pulls Lt. Derek Schrammel through the water during a simulated rescue off Torrance Beach.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Coast Guard air crews practice being hoisted aloft by a helicopter during a simulated rescue off Torrance Beach.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Coast Guard Petty Officer Brad Rode leaves a trail of smoke during flare practice at Torrance Beach.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Coast Guard air crew members pull each other into a rescue raft during “wet drills” training.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Coast Guard air crew members leave the water at Torrance Beach after their annual “wet drills.” The drills give the personnel from Air Station Los Angeles a chance to practice rescues, test safety gear and refresh their skills.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)